A 35-year-old man has been charged with two felony counts and a misdemeanor after allegedly assaulting a woman during a domestic violence incident earlier this month. Kevin Dwight Nichols was arrested by the Burgaw Police Department on June 20, 2026.
According to court records, Nichols is accused of strangling Melissa Devane Fields with his hands, causing physical injury and petechiae around her neck. The alleged assault also resulted in facial injuries, an eye injury, a large amount of bleeding, and additional injuries related to the strangulation. Additionally, Nichols is charged with misdemeanor assault on a female for allegedly striking Fields with his hand.
The case involves domestic violence and court documents note that Nichols has an "extensive history" of violent crimes. Following his arrest, a magistrate ordered him held for a district court judge to determine bond. On June 22, the district court judge set Nichols' bond at $100,000 secured and ordered that he have no direct or indirect contact with Fields.
The case remains pending in Pender County District Court. The Burgaw Police Department investigated the incident, which occurred earlier this month.
Background: Domestic violence is a serious issue in many communities across the United States. According to national statistics, one in four women experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime. Law enforcement agencies and courts often work together to hold perpetrators accountable for such crimes.